Valerie Phipps
she/her | @iriecyclearts
Valerie Phipps is the maker and artist behind Iriecycle Arts. She’s a self taught artist that has worked in many mediums and is particularly passionate in creating with textiles, specifically sewing with upcycled and found materials, as well as block printing with her hand carved linoleum designs. She is attracted to bold colors, minimalism, and the raw edge. She strives to create truth with her work and to let the illusion of perfectionism stay out of her process. Valerie launched Iriecycle Arts after the birth of her daughter in 2007 when she was inspired to use materials that she already had to create one-of-a-kind baby and children's clothing out of well loved adult pieces. The creative seeds sparking this wave of making upcycled, wearable art were sown long before, however, as she was inspired by her father as a child. He had a unique way of creating on a budget. He was thrifty and an upcycler long before it was fashionable.
For the past decade, Valerie has used this kind of innovation to guide her as an Elementary school art teacher as well, offering her students vast experiences including using recycled materials, to implementing found materials in nature, and to study local and influential artists. She is committed to making art and helping others to express themselves while also caring for the planet and future generations. She offers messages of joy, tranquility, and a deepening connection by sharing her work. Valerie is grateful for the everlasting inspiration she receives from her musical husband and beautiful daughter, living on the California coast, her art students and her indigenous and Latina roots. Vivimos juntos con paz y amor. Comunidad siempre.
See Valerie’s artworks that are hanging in Treehouse below! Interested in purchasing?Talk to your budtender!
Click on the images to view details.
